Uncompromised

Ah, here we are—November! The month when leaves take their final, glorious bow, the aroma of all things pumpkin spice fills the air, and we get to savor the cozy comforts of sweaters and scarves. But beyond the pumpkin pies and harvest tables lies the true gift of this season: gratitude. As we enter this month, traditionally marked by thanksgiving, we’re reminded of God’s unchanging goodness and the abundant blessings He showers over our lives. For some, Thanksgiving stirs warm memories of family gatherings and laughter; for others, it’s a reminder of heartache or empty chairs at the table. Wherever you are on that spectrum, my prayer is that you’ll find refuge in the One who is always present, always faithful, and always worthy of our thanks. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all that we don’t have or everything that seems to be going wrong. Life is full of its own trials and little heartbreaks—believe me, I understand! But did you know that cultivating gratitude isn’t just a nice idea...

  The best friends we can have are those who pray for you without needing to be asked. They defend you when you’re not around, and with them, gossip comes to a dead stop. I always remind my son that God sends us different types of friends. Some are seasonal—friends who enter your life for a time, sharing laughter, love, and memories. As seasons change, so do our lives, and sometimes these friends are led down a different path. Though life may take us in separate directions, they will always hold a piece of your heart. These friends are special, and we often wish they could stay forever. Then there are lifelong friends. Even if years pass without seeing each other, when you reconnect, it’s as if no time has passed at all! As I grow older, I realize one of the most precious gifts God has given me is my "God-connected" friends—those who sense when you need prayer, even when you haven’t spoken a word. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve prayed for someone, only to receive a me...